Columbia Kicks Off Native American Heritage Month Celebrations!

Columbia Celebrates Native American Heritage Month!

Hey there, Columbia! It’s that time of year again—November is officially Native American Heritage Month, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of Native Americans right here in South Carolina. Governor Henry McMaster made this proclamation to highlight and recognize the importance of Native tribes in our community.

A Time for Recognition

Joshua Shumak from the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs (CMA) is super excited about this month. He says it’s crucial for residents to be aware of the small yet vibrant Native community in a state that’s one of the fastest-growing in the nation. “It’s just a time of recognizing them, putting awareness to them,” Shumak expressed. South Carolina is home to various Native American tribes and individuals who have made contributions well before the country was founded!

Deeply Rooted Histories

Did you know that some communities in South Carolina trace their history back thousands of years? Many of these groups had interactions with colonial powers, including treaties with the British government. It’s amazing to think about the cultural practices and traditions that have persisted over centuries, often right in our local neighborhoods. We often share our streets with people who have rich legacies that have survived against the odds!

Who’s Who in Our Community?

Currently, South Carolina boasts 10 recognized Native tribes, and there are also four groups that are state-recognized along with one special interest organization. Altogether, approximately 11,000 individuals in the state identify as Native American. “We are still here, and we want to let people know that we’re still here, and we’re really not going anywhere,” passionately stated Chief Eric Pratt of the Santee Indian Organization.

Challenges in the Modern Era

But it’s not all celebrations; there are struggles faced by the Native community. Chief Pratt highlighted one of the biggest issues: land. “Native Americans don’t have the land for being able to grow their own crops,” he stressed. Unfortunately, commercial developments are encroaching on farmland, which limits opportunities for traditional agricultural practices.

Contributions to Society

Even with these challenges, the Native American community continues to give back in numerous ways. Shumak noted that “Native tribes and native people contribute to the army in far larger numbers in comparison to any other population group.” Not only do they serve in the military, but they’re also business leaders and nonprofit activists striving for a more equitable society in South Carolina. They strive to elevate the community, and their impact is felt far and wide!

Mark Your Calendars!

As part of this month of recognition, November 29th has been specifically designated as South Carolina’s Native American Heritage Day. It is a day for all of us to come together and appreciate the cultural legacies and vibrant traditions that Native Americans bring to our state. So, let’s dive into activities, classes, and discussions that will shed light on Native American cultures and histories!

Let’s Stay Engaged!

So, Columbia, as we embrace Native American Heritage Month, let’s make an effort to learn about and appreciate the tribal diversity among us. Whether it’s participating in local events or simply having a conversation with a neighbor about their culture, there’s always room to grow in understanding and respect.

Let’s cherish the unique heritage that enriches our community and coming together to celebrate will only lead to greater unity in our Palmetto State. Happy Native American Heritage Month! 🌼